In the following demonstrations of patient handling tasks that put the nurse at risk, the primary focus of the anatomy will be the lower back, the shoulder, the wrist, and the knee.

Daily activities of direct patient care will reveal examples of poor biomechanics, ineffective body mechanics and the disregard for ergonomics.

The most common activities resulting in injuries are lifting, pulling/pushing and twisting. However, repetitive motions, holding static positions, poorly designed work areas and common workplace hazards account for a significant number of injuries.

Funding and support for this project provided by the State of Washington, Department of Labor and Industries, Safety and Health Investment Projects (SHIP). This program is in the public domain and may be downloaded, duplicated and distributed.